toxin

(eg. vexed, freedom, hindu )

toxin /ˈtɑk sən/ ?

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(n) a poisonous substance produced during the metabolism and growth of certain microorganisms and some higher plant and animal species

After receiving the toxin orally or by pinprick, a victim first feels a tingling sensation in the fingers and lips, then dies within ten seconds of painless paralysis.
Researchers have known for several years that TSS is caused by a toxin produced by a common and usually harmless bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus.
But once toxin enters the cord, it somehow becomes transformed into a new poison.

Dr Ellen Vitetta, who led the study, said: "Our major concern in this trial was safety. We have taken a very deadly toxin and genetically engineered it to be safe and to induce protective immunity in humans."
on Jan 30, 2006 By: Ellen Vitetta Source: BBC News
The FDA "has not issued any warnings to patients or doctors about the dangers of using the toxin," the group, founded by consumer campaigner and former presidential candidate Ralph Nader, said in a statement.
on Jan 26, 2008 By: Ralph Nader Source: AFP
"This work represents a previously unknown example of a toxin hitchhiking on staphylococcal mobile genetic elements that are primarily in charge of transferring antibiotic resistance," says Dr. Otto.
on Jul 31, 2009 By: Michael Otto Source: Science Daily (press release)